In a significant development for traditional governance in Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has officially inaugurated a revitalised State Council of Obas and Chiefs. The ceremony, held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, marked the commencement of a rotational chairmanship system among the state's foremost monarchs.
Olubadan Assumes Leadership Role
The historic event, which took place at the House of Chiefs Hall within the Oyo State House of Assembly Complex in Agodi, Ibadan, saw Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, installed as the council's inaugural chairman. His tenure is set to last for a period of two years, concluding in 2028, after which the position is scheduled to rotate.
Governor Makinde, addressing a gathering of over forty monarchs from across the state, clarified the new structure. He stated that the chairmanship would rotate every two years among a trio of first-class rulers: the Olubadan of Ibadan, the Alaafin of Oyo, and the Soun of Ogbomosoland. The governor emphasised that this move followed extensive consultations and the passage of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs (Further Amendments) Bill, 2025 by the state legislature.
Conspicuous Absence Sparks Discussion
A notable feature of the inauguration was the absence of one of the key figures in the new rotational arrangement. Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, was not present at the ceremony. His non-attendance drew significant attention, given his status as one of the state's most prominent traditional leaders and his designated future role in the council's leadership rotation.
This absence occurs against a backdrop of reported tensions. Prior to the inauguration, Ibadan stakeholders, including Mogajis (family heads) and Baales (community leaders), had issued a statement cautioning the Alaafin against perceived disrespect towards the Olubadan stool and the broader Ibadan traditional institution. The statement, signed by figures like Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori and Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade, described certain actions as an embarrassment.
A New Chapter for Traditional Institutions
The inauguration signifies Governor Makinde's effort to strengthen and streamline the role of traditional institutions in Oyo State's governance and cultural preservation. The rotational system is designed to ensure equity and collective leadership among the major traditional power centres in the state.
With Oba Ladoja now at the helm until 2028, the council is expected to play a pivotal role in advising the state government on matters of culture, security, and community development. The successful implementation of this rotational model will be closely watched as a potential blueprint for inter-royal cooperation and administrative harmony in Nigeria's traditional landscape.
